How to Choose the Right Lamps for Different Room Types​

Different rooms need different kinds of lamps. In some rooms, you need lamps that will bathe the entire room in light. In others, you only need light in small, concentrated areas. Sometimes you want your lamp to blend in with your decor, while other times you want it to stand out as a decorative accent. But how do you choose? Here are some answers for your different rooms:

For Living Room

(Lamp Types: Floor Lamps, Table Lamps, Accent Lighting)

Since your living room is a common area, any lamps you choose to put in this room will be on full display for anyone who comes into your home. Use floor lamps for your main ambient lighting, complemented by table lamps for filler light. If you have art pieces or photos hanging on the wall, feel free to use accent lighting (like wall sconces or spotlights) to highlight them. Most importantly, the living room is a room for company and conversation; make sure you don’t obstruct the line of sight between any of the seats.

For Bedroom

(Lamp Types: Floor Lamps, Table Lamps)

If you don’t have an overhead light in your bedroom, use a floor lamp or two to provide overall light for the room. Bedside lamps should be smaller than ones you would use in the living room. When it comes to these table lamps, use accent colours that complement the main colours of your bedroom instead of blending. This will help create an attractive and interesting space for you to relax in, and it will reaffirm that—unlike your guest-centred living room—this room is just for you.

For Dining Room

Chandeliers and pendant lights are a staple of dining rooms, but they can often benefit from the addition of a lamp or two. If you have a sideboard in the room, adding a couple of buffet lamps—one on either end—is a fantastic way to add some extra light. Try to blend the lamp’s colours with the colours of the room; the central focus should be the meal on the table and the company around it.

For Home Office

(Lamp Types: Desk/Task Lamps, Floor Lamps)

When you’re working, you need to focus on what you’re doing—and so does your light. Keep your desk and table space uncluttered by choosing a floor lamp for your ambient light. Also, choose lamps with simpler styling. Lamps that blend into the decor of your office are less obtrusive and distracting, allowing for a much more productive workspace.

For Kids Room

(Lamp Types: All)

Like most kids room decor, kids lamps tend to be smaller and more colourful than their grown-up versions. Whether you’re choosing a floor lamp, a table lamp, or even a night light for their room, be sure to pay attention to their interests. It’s more important for your child to like the look of his room than for all the colours to match perfectly. Have fun!